When is Pancake Day 2027?

Pancake Day, or Shrove Tuesday, is the day before Lent begins. It always falls on a Tuesday, but the calendar date changes each year because it is tied to Easter.

The tradition of eating pancakes is linked to using up rich ingredients such as eggs, milk and fat before the fasting season of Lent.

It remains widely marked in Britain at home, in schools and through local events, including the pancake races held in some towns.

Pancake DayThe Tuesday before Lent — 47 days before Easter Sunday

Also calledShrove Tuesday

The day afterAsh Wednesday, when Lent begins

Shrove Tuesday and Lent

The word "shrove" comes from the old practice of being shriven, or confessing, before Lent. Ash Wednesday is 46 days before Easter Sunday, and Pancake Day falls the day before it.

It is not a public holiday, so schools, shops and workplaces generally follow their normal hours.

Frequently asked questions

When is Pancake Day?

It is the Tuesday before Lent begins, 47 days before Easter Sunday. The date changes each year with Easter.

Why is it called Shrove Tuesday?

The name comes from the old practice of being shriven, or confessing, before the Lenten fast.

Why do people eat pancakes?

The tradition is linked to using up ingredients such as eggs, milk and fat before Lent.

Is Pancake Day a bank holiday?

No. Shrove Tuesday is not a bank holiday. It always falls on a Tuesday, though in some years that Tuesday lands inside the February half term.

Pancake Day